Whether you’re staying at home this summer or heading off on vacation, the outdoor temperatures will rise when the sun is shining. It’s important to consider how hot weather can affect both your drone and you. This FAQ offers some helpful tips for flying a drone in warm conditions during the summer.
Flying a Drone in Hot Weather:
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Check the temperature limits of your equipment. Electronics, especially batteries, can’t get too hot or too cold if you want them to function well. Before flying, check the temperature range specified in your drone’s manual. For example, DJI recommends a range of 0°C to 40°C for the Mavic Pro and Phantom 4.
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Avoid leaving your drone or batteries in a hot car. Inside a parked car, temperatures can rise quickly, damaging your drone’s batteries. Don’t place a warm battery straight onto the charger; let it cool down to room temperature first. While drones can handle heat to an extent, try not to fly them right after they’ve been in a hot car.
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Prevent your devices from overheating while flying. Your phone or tablet may overheat and shut down during use, which could cause issues mid-flight. Keep your FPV screen out of direct sunlight and, if you’re standing in the shade, make sure you still have a clear line of sight to your drone.
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Be mindful of your surroundings. Warm weather draws people outdoors, so make sure to respect their space and privacy. Avoid flying over crowds, and be cautious of pets and children nearby. Keep an eye on other aircraft like gliders or ultralights that may be sharing the airspace.
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Take care of yourself. On hot days, stay hydrated and wear a hat or cap. Try to fly with the sun behind you to avoid glare and strain. Drink plenty of water to stay alert and responsive while flying.
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Monitor the humidity. If you’re flying in a tropical location, higher humidity can cause condensation inside your drone or on your camera lens. After a flight, wipe your drone down with a lint-free cloth to keep it dry.
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Watch for dust clouds. Dry weather can create dusty surfaces, and your drone might kick up dust during takeoff or landing. This could interfere with your drone’s sensors, so using a landing pad can help reduce the problem.
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Be aware of fire hazards. Dry grass can catch fire easily, and a drone battery that’s damaged in a crash could start a fire. If your drone crashes, reach it quickly and ensure there’s no risk of fire. Consider keeping a small fire extinguisher in your car, and don’t use any batteries from a crashed drone.
These tips will help you fly safely and avoid issues when operating your drone in hot weather.